IMG
© Stephen Matthews

Tiritiri Matangi Island

-36.59968 , 174.89033

New Zealand

Tiritiri Matangi is one the most successful of the island sanctuaries that have been established to safeguard the indigenous and endemic wildlife of Aotearoa New Zealand. A few endemic species including New Zealand Pigeon and Bellbird were already resident when the reserve was established in the 1980s. Since that time, native trees and shrubs have been replanted and a series of reintroductions have taken place, including North Island Saddleback, Kokako and Robin, Stichbird, Rifleman, Tomtit and Little Spotted Kiwi. Birds are encouraged to breed using nestboxes and given supplemental feeding.

The reintroductions have been so successful that many birds have moved on from the sanctuary to the main North Island and to other sanctuaries. Red-crowned Parakeets and New Zealand Bellbirds have spontaneously crossed the strait to Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Other species have been translocated to the growing number of predator-free sanctuaries around the country.

Easily accessible by day trip from Auckland, the island offers the best opportunity to see endemic forest birds in the Auckand area, and one of the outstanding birding experiences of the whole country.

Delete exact location

The introductory text should contain general information about the site, which may include for instance:
• geographic/ biogeographic location
• habitat and vegetation
• typical bird species/bird communities
• protection status
• land use and history
• importance for birdwatching

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : -36.5997/174.8903 (2023-07-16 04:15:26 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : -36.5997/174.8903 (2023-07-16 04:07:31 )

Coordinates were changed by Stephen Matthews : -36.5997/174.8903 (2023-07-16 04:05:57 )

Coordinates were set by Admin : : -36.5997/-185.1097 (2019-02-26 00:00:00 )

Site name was set by Admin : as "Tiritiri Matangi Island" (2019-02-26 00:00:00 )

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-02-20 07:35:33
Tiritiri Matangi is one the most successful of the island sanctuaries that have been established to safeguard the indigenous and endemic wildlife of Aotearoa New Zealand. A few endemic species including New Zealand Pigeon and Bellbird and Pigeon were already resident when the reserve was established in the 1980s. Since that time, native trees and shrubs have been replanted and a series of reintroductions have taken place, including North Island Saddleback, Kokako and Robin, Stichbird, Rifleman, Tomtit and Little Spotted Kiwi. Birds are encouraged to breed using nestboxes and given supplemental feeding. The reintroductions have been so successful that many birds have moved on from the sanctuary to the main North Island and to other sanctuaries. Red-crowned Parakeets and New Zealand Bellbirds have spontaneously crossed the strait to Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Other species have been translocated to the growing number of predator-free sanctuaries around the country. Easily accessible by day trip from Auckland, the island offers the best opportunity to see endemic forest birds in the Auckand area, and one of the outstanding birding experiences of the whole country.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-01-01 06:45:12
Tiritiri Matangi is one the most successful of the island sanctuaries that have been established to safeguard the indigenous and endemic wildlife of Aotearoa New Zealand. A few endemic species including New Zealand Bellbird and Pigeon were already resident when the reserve was established in the 1980s. Since that time, replanting of native trees and shrubs have been replanted and a series of reintroductions have taken place, including North Island Saddleback, Kokako and Robin; Robin, Stichbird, Rifleman, Tomtit and Little Spotted Kiwi. Birds are encouraged to breed using nestboxes and given supplemental feeding. The reintroductions have been so successful that many birds have moved on from the sanctuary to the main North Island and to other sanctuaries. Red-crowned Parakeets and New Zealand Bellbirds have spontaneously crossed the strait to Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Other species have been translocated to the growing number of predator-free sanctuaries around the country. Easily accessible by day trip from Auckland, the island offers the best opportunity to see endemic forest birds in the Auckand area, and one of the outstanding birding experiences of the whole country.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-11-02 13:11:16
Tiritiri Matangi is one the most successful of the island sanctuaries that have been established to safeguard the indigenous and endemic wildlife of Aotearoa New Zealand. A few endemic species including New Zealand Bellbird and Pigeon were already resident when the reserve was established in the 1980s. Since that time, replanting of native trees and shrubs and a series of reintroductions have taken place, including North Island Saddleback, Kokako and Robin; Stichbird, Rifleman, Tomtit and Little Spotted Kiwi. Birds are encouraged to breed using nestboxes and given supplemental feeding with sugar syrup. feeding. The reintroductions have been so successful that many birds have moved on from the sanctuary to the main North Island and to other sanctuaries. Red-crowned Parakeets and New Zealand Bellbirds have spontaneously crossed the strait to Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Other species have been translocated to the growing number of predator-free sanctuaries around the country. Easily accessible by day trip from Auckland, the island offers the best opportunity to see endemic forest birds in the Auckand area, and one of the outstanding birding experiences of the whole country.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-10-09 05:24:08
Tiritiri Matangi is one the most successful of the island sanctuaries that have been established to safeguard the indigenous and endemic wildlife of Aotearoa New Zealand. A few species including New Zealand Bellbird and Pigeon were already resident when the reserve was established in the 1980s. Since that time, replanting of native trees and shrubs and a series of reintroductions have taken place, including North Island Saddleback, Kokako and Robin; Stichbird, Rifleman, Tomtit and Little Spotted Kiwi. Birds are encouraged to breed using nestboxes and given supplemental feeding with sugar syrup. The reintroductions have been so successful that many birds have moved on from the sanctuary to the main North Island and to other sanctuaries. Red-crowned Parakeets and New Zealand Bellbirds have spontaneously crossed the strait to Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Others Other species have been translocated to the growing number of predator-free sanctuaries around the country. Easily accessible by day trip from Auckland, the island offers the best opportunity to see endemic forest birds in the Auckand area, and one of the outstanding birding experiences of the whole country.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-10-09 05:23:10
Tiritiri Matangi is one the most successful of the island sanctuaries that have been established to safeguard the indigenous and endemic wildlife of Aotearoa.Aotearoa New Zealand. A few species including New Zealand Bellbird and Pigeon were already resident when the reserve was established in the 1980s. Since that time, replanting of native trees and shrubs and a series of reintroductions have taken place, including North Island Saddleback, Kokako and Robin; Stichbird, Rifleman, Tomtit and Little Spotted Kiwi. Birds are encouraged to breed using nestboxes and given supplemental feeding with sugar syrup. The reintroductions have been so successful that many birds have moved on from the sanctuary to the main North Island and to other sanctuaries. Red-crowned Parakeets and New Zealand Bellbirds have spontaneously crossed the strait to Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Others have been translocated to the growing number of predator-free sanctuaries around the country. Easily accessible by day trip from Auckland, the island offers the best opportunity to see endemic forest birds in the Auckand area, and one of the outstanding birding experiences of the whole country.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-17 14:22:45
Tiritiri Matangi is one the most successful of the island sanctuaries that have been established to safeguard the indigenous and endemic wildlife of Aotearoa. A few species incuding the including New Zealand Bellbird and Pigeon were already resident when the reserve was established in the 1980s. Since that time, replanting of native trees and shrubs and a series of reintroductions have taken place, including North Island Saddleback, Kokako and Robin; Stichbird, Rifleman, Tomtit and Little Spotted Kiwi. Birds are encouraged to breed using nestboxes and given supplemental feeding wih with sugar syrup. The reintroductions have been so successful that many birds have moved on from the sanctuary to the main North Island and to other sanctuaries. Red-crowned Parakeets and New Zealand Bellbirds have spontaneously crossed the strait to Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Others have been translocated to the growing number of predator-free sanctuaries aroudn around the country. Easily accessible by day trip from Auckland, the island offers the best opportunity to see endemic forest birds in the Auckand area, and one of the outstanding birding experiences of the whole country.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-16 04:15:26
Tiritiri Matangi is one the most successful of the island sanctuaries that have been established to safeguard the indigenous and endemic wildlife of Aotearoa. A few species incuding the New Zealand Bellbird and Pidgeon Pigeon were already resident when the reserve was established in the 1980s. Since that time, replanting of native trees and shrubs and a series of reintroductions has have taken place, including North Island Saddleback, Kokako and Robin; Stichbird, Rifleman, Tomtit and Little Spotted Kiwi. Birds are encouraged to breed using nestboxes and supplemental feeding wih sugar syrup. The reintroductions have been so successful that birds have moved from the sanctuary to the main North Island and to other sanctuaries. Red-crowned Parakeets and New Zealand Bellbirds have spontaneously crossed the strait to Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Others have been translocated to the growing number of predator-free sanctuaries aroudn the country. Easily accessible by day trip from Auckland, the island offers the best opportunity to see endemic forest birds in the Auckand area, and one of the outstanding birding experiences of the whole country.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-16 04:07:30
Tiritiri Matangi is one the most successful of the island sanctuaries that have been established to safeguard the indigenous and endemic wildlife of Aotearoa. A few species incuding the New Zealand Bellbird and Pidgeon where were already resident when the reserve was established in the 1980s. Since that time, a series of reintroductions has taken place, including North Island Saddleback, Kokako and Robin; Stichbird, Rifleman, Tomtit and Little Spotted Kiwi. Birds are encouraged to breed using nestboxes and supplemental feeding wih sugar syrup. The reintroductions have been so successful that birds have moved from the sanctuary to the main North Island and to other sanctuaries. Red-crowned Parakeets and New Zealnad Zealand Bellbirds have spontaneously crossed the strait to Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparaoa peninsula. peninsula. Others have been translocated to the growing number of predator-free sanctuaries aroudn the country. Easily accessible by day trip from Auckland, the island offers the best opportunity to see endemic forest birds in the Auckand area, and one of the outstanding birding experiences of the whole country.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-16 04:05:57
Tiritiri Matangi is one the most successful of the island sanctuaries that have been established to safeguard the indigenous and endemic wildlife of Aotearoa. A few species incuding the New Zealand Bellbird and Pidgeon where already resident when the reserve was established in the 1980s. Since that time, a series of reintrduins reintroductions has ake taken place, icnuding Norht ISland Sadaleback, including North Island Saddleback, Kokako and Robin; Stichbird, Rifleman, Tomtit and Little Spotted Kiwi.  Kiwi. Birds are encouraged to breed using nestboxes and supplemental feeding wih sugar syrup. The reintrcutions reintroductions have been so successful that birds have moved to the North Island and to other sanctuaries. Red-crowned Parakeets and New Zealnad Bellbirds have spontaneously crossed the strait to Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Easily accessible by day trip from Auckland, the island offers the best opportunity to see endemic forest birds in the Auckand area, and one of the outstanding birding experiences of the whole country.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-16 04:03:41
Tiritiri Matangi is one the most successful of the island sanctuaries that have been established to safeguard the indigenous and endemic wildlife of Aotearoa. A few species incuding the New Zealand Bellbird and Pidgeon where already resident when the reserve was established in the 1980s. Since that time, a series of reintrduins has ake place, icnuding Norht ISland Sadaleback, Kokako and Robin; Stichbird, Rifleman, Tomtit and Little Spotted Kiwi.  The reintrcutions have been so successful that birds have moved to the North Island and to other sanctuaries. Red-crowned Parakeets and New Zealnad Bellbirds have spontaneously crossed the strait to Shakespear Regional Park on the Whangaparaoa peninsula. Easily accessible by day trip from Auckland, the island offers the best opportunity to see endemic forest birds in the Auckand area, and one of the outstanding birding experiences of the whole country.

  • Top species

List up to ca. 25 species that:
• have a limited distribution range and/or are rare on a global level
• are most sought-after by birdwatchers at this site
• and are relatively easy to see at this site (year-round or seasonally)

Little Spotted Kiwi (Apteryx owenii)
Brown Teal (Anas chlorotis)
South Island Takahe (Porphyrio hochstetteri)
Little Penguin (Eudyptula minor)
Gray-faced Petrel (Pterodroma gouldi)
Red-crowned Parakeet (Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae)
Rifleman (Acanthisitta chloris)
Whitehead (Mohoua albicilla)
North Island Kokako (Callaeas wilsoni)
North Island Saddleback (Philesturnus rufusater)
Stitchbird (Notiomystis cincta)
North Island Robin (Petroica longipes)
New Zealand Fernbird (Poodytes punctatus)

Little Penguin (Eudyptula minor) was added by Stephen Matthews (2024-02-20 07:39:34)

New Zealand Fernbird (Poodytes punctatus) was added by Stephen Matthews (2024-02-20 07:37:17)

Little Spotted Kiwi (Apteryx owenii) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:10:14)

Tomtit (Petroica macrocephala) was deleted by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:09:58)

Whitehead (Mohoua albicilla) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:09:35)

Stitchbird (Notiomystis cincta) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:09:20)

Red-crowned Parakeet (Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:08:34)

Rifleman (Acanthisitta chloris) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:08:20)

Gray-faced Petrel (Pterodroma gouldi) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:07:57)

Tomtit (Petroica macrocephala) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:06:54)

North Island Saddleback (Philesturnus rufusater) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:06:18)

Brown Teal (Anas chlorotis) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:06:06)

South Island Takahe (Porphyrio hochstetteri) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:05:52)

North Island Robin (Petroica longipes) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:05:40)

North Island Kokako (Callaeas wilsoni) was added by Stephen Matthews (2023-07-14 08:05:19)

  • Timing and strategy

Most of the land birds are residents, except for the Shining Bronze Cuckoo which is a summer visitor.

Most visitors will be bound by the ferry schedule, which allows for 5 hours on the island. Those staying overnight may look for Little Spotted Kiwi at night.

Visitors are asked to keep to the well-marked trails. A popular route is the "Kawerau loop", taking the following series of trails:

1. The Hobbs Beach Trail to Hobbs Beach. Little Penguins may be seen in their burrows by lifting the lids provided beside the trail. Whitehead and Saddleback may be seen along the path.

2. The Kawerau Trail, which ascends through wet forest from Hobbs Beach to the Ridge Road. Here Stichbird, Bellbird and Tui may be seen. North Island Saddleback are often on the ground, and might be seen by sitting on the benches provided at stream crossings.

3. The Ridge Road (and/or the parallel Cable Trail) to the Lighthouse and Visitor Centre where one can take rest and refreshments. North Island Robin might be seen along this route. At the Lighthouse, a grassy area holds a few Takahe, while Red-crowned Parakeets might be seen in the surrounding bushes.

4. The Wattle Trail from the Visitor Centre to the Ferry Wharf. This trail offers good chances for seeing North Island Kokako. In case Stichbird have not yet shown themselves, they can be seen by waiting at nectar feeders and water troughs along the Wattle Trail. Just before reaching the wharf, there is a small pond which has Brown Teal and Fernbird, both secretive species.

Guided tours are usually available, best booked online together with the ferry ticket.

Further tips are provided in the trip report from 2019 by Stefan Greif on Orniverse.

Give recommendations for making your visit as productive as possible.
This may include for instance:
• best season
• best time of the day
• how much time to spend at the site
• best means of locomotion within the site
• recommended routes / areas within the site
• guiding

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-02-20 07:56
Most of the land birds are residents, except for the Shining Bronze Cuckoo which is a summer visitor. Most visitors will be bound by the ferry schedule, which allows for 5 hours on the island. Those staying overnight may look for Little Spotted Kiwi at night. Visitors are asked to keep to the well-marked trails. A popular route is the "Kawerau loop", taking the following series of trails: 1. The Hobbs Beach Trail to Hobbs Beach. Little Penguins may be seen in their burrows by lifting the lids provided beside the trail. Whitehead and Saddleback may be seen along the path. 2. The Kawerau Trail, which ascends through wet forest from Hobbs Beach to the Ridge Road. Here Stichbird, Bellbird and Tui may be seen. North Island Saddleback are often on the ground, and might be seen by sitting on the benches provided at stream crossings. 3. The Ridge Road (and/or the parallel Cable Trail) to the Lighthouse and Visitor Centre where one can take rest and refreshments. North Island Robin might be seen along this route. At the Lighthouse, a grassy area holds a few Takahe, while Red-crowned Parakeets might be seen in the surrounding bushes. 4. The Wattle Trail from the Visitor Centre to the Ferry Wharf. This trail offers good chances for seeing North Island Kokako. In case Stichbird have not yet shown themselves, they can be seen by waiting at nectar feeders and water troughs along the Wattle Trail. Just before reaching the wharf, there is a small pond which has Brown Teal and Fernbird, both secretive species. Guided tours are usually available, best booked online together with the ferry ticket.ticket. Further tips are provided in the trip report from 2019 by Stefan Greif on Orniverse.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-10-09 05:25
Most of the land birds are residents, except for the Shining Bronze Cuckoos Cuckoo which is a summer visitor. Most visitors will be bound by the ferry schedule, which allows for 5 hours on the island. Those staying overnight may look for Little Spotted Kiwi at night. Visitors are asked to keep to the well-marked trails. A popular route is the "Kawerau loop", taking the following series of trails: 1. The Hobbs Beach Trail to Hobbs Beach. Little Penguins may be seen in their burrows by lifting the lids provided beside the trail. Whitehead and Saddleback may be seen along the path. 2. The Kawerau Trail, which ascends through wet forest from Hobbs Beach to the Ridge Road. Here Stichbird, Bellbird and Tui may be seen. North Island Saddleback are often on the ground, and might be seen by sitting on the benches provided at stream crossings. 3. The Ridge Road (and/or the parallel Cable Trail) to the Lighthouse and Visitor Centre where one can take rest and refreshments. North Island Robin might be seen along this route. At the Lighthouse, a grassy area holds a few Takahe, while Red-crowned Parakeets might be seen in the surrounding bushes. 4. The Wattle Trail from the Visitor Centre to the Ferry Wharf. This trail offers good chances for seeing North Island Kokako. In case Stichbird have not yet shown themselves, they can be seen by waiting at nectar feeders and water troughs along the Wattle Trail. Just before reaching the wharf, there is a small pond which has Brown Teal and Fernbird, both secretive species. Guided tours are usually available, best booked online together with the ferry ticket.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-17 05:07
Most of the land birds are residents, except for cuckoos the Shining Bronze Cuckoos which are is a summer visitors. visitor. Most visitors will be bound by the ferry schedule, which allows for 5 hours on the island. Those staying overnight may look for Little Spotted Kiwi at night. Visitors are asked to keep to the well-marked trails. A popular route is the "Kawerau loop", taking the following series of trails: 1. The Hobbs Beach Trail to Hobbs Beach. Little Penguins may be seen in their burrows by lifting the lids provided beside the trail. Whitehead and Saddleback may be seen along the path. 2. The Kawerau Trail, which ascends through wet forest from Hobbs Beach to the Ridge Road. Here Stichbird, Bellbird and Tui may be seen. North Island Saddleback are often on the ground, and might be seen by sitting on the benches provided at stream crossings. 3. The Ridge Road (and/or the parallel Cable Trail) to the Lighthouse and Visitor Centre where one can take rest and refreshments. North Island Robin might be seen along this route. At the Lighthouse, a grassy area holds a few Takahe, while Red-crowned Parakeets might be seen in the surrounding bushes. 4. The Wattle Trail from the Visitor Centre to the Ferry Wharf. This trail offers good chances for seeing North Island Kokako. In case Stichbird have not yet shown themselves, they can be seen by waiting at nectar feeders and water troughs along the Wattle Trail. Just before reaching the wharf, there is a small pond which has Brown Teal and Fernbird, both secretive species. Guided tours are usually available, best booked online together with the ferry ticket.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-17 04:57
Most of the land birds are residents, except for cuckoos which are summer visitors. Most visitors will be bound by the ferry schedule, which allows for 5 hours on the island. Those staying overnight may look for Little Spotted Kiwi at night. Visitors are asked to keep to the well-marked trails. A popular route is the "Kawerau loop", taking the following series of trails: 1. The Hobbs Beach Trail to Hobbs Beach. Little Penguins may be seen in their burrows by lifting the lids provided beside the trail. Whitehead and Saddleback may be seen along the path. 2. The Kawerau Trail, which ascends thorugh through wet forest from Hobbs Beach to the Ridge Road. Here Stichbird, Bellbird and Tui may be seen. North Island Saddleback are often on the ground, and might be seen by sitting on the benches provided at stream crossings. 3. The Ridge Road (and/or the parallel Cable Trail) to the Lighthouse and Visitor Centre.Centre where one can take rest and refreshments. North Island Robin might be seen along this route. At the Lighthouse, a grassy area holds a few Takahe, while Red-crowned Parakeets might be seen in the surrounding bushes. 4. The Wattle Trail from the Visitor Centre to the Ferry Wharf.  This trail offers good chances for seeing North Island Kokako. In case Stichbird have not yet shown themselves, they can be seen by waiting at nectar feeders and water troughs along the Wattle Tail.Trail. Just before reaching the wharf, there is a small pond which has Brown Teal and Fernbird, both secretive species. Guided tours are usually available, best booked online together with the ferry ticket.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-16 04:13
Most of the land birds are residents, except for cuckoos which are summer visitors. Most visitors will be bound by the ferry schedule, which allows for 5 hours on the island. Those staying overnight may look for Little Spotted Kiwi at night. Visitors are asked to keep to the well-marked trails. A popular route is the "Kawerau loop", taking the following trails: 1. The Hobbs Beach Trail to Hobbs Beach. Little Penguins may be seen in their burrows by lifting the lids provided beside the trail. Whitehead and Saddleback may be seen along the path. 2. The Kawerau Trail, which ascends thorugh wet forest from Hobbs Beach to the Ridge Road. Here Stichbird, Bellbird and Tui may be seen. North Island Saddleback are often on the ground, and might be seen by sitting on the benches provided at stream crossings. 3. The Ridge Road (and/or the parallel Cable Trail) to the Lighthouse and Visitor Centre. North Island Robin might be seen along this route. At the Lighthouse, a grassy area holds a few Takahe, while Red-crowned Parakeets may might be seen in the surrounding bushes. 4. The Wattle Trail from the Visitor Centre to the Ferry Wharf.  This trail offers good chances for North Island Kokako. In case Stichbird have not yet shown themselves, they can be seen by waiting at nectar feeders and water troughs along the Wattle Tail. Just before reaching the wharf, there is a small pond which has Brown Teal and Fernbird, both secretive species. Guided tours are usually available, best booked online together with the ferry ticket.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-14 08:33
Most of the land birds are residents, except for cuckoos which are summer visitors. Most visitors will be bound by the ferry schedule, which allows for 5 hours on the island. Those staying overnight may look for Little Spotted Kiwi at night. Visitors are asked to keep to the well-marked trails. A popular route is the "Kawerau loop", taking the following trails: 1. The Hobbs Beach Trail to Hobbs Beach. Little Penguins may be seen in their burrows by lifting the lids provided beside the trail. Whitehead and Saddleback may be seen along the path. 2. The Kawerau Trail, which ascends thorugh wet forest from Hobbs Beach to the Ridge Road. Here Stichbird, Bellbird and Tui may be seen. North Island Saddleback are often on the ground, and might be seen by sitting on the benches provided at stream crossings. 3. The Ridge Road (and/or the parallel Cable Trail) to the Lighthouse and Visitor Centre. North Island Robin might be seen along this route. At the Lighthouse, a grassy area holds a few Takahe, while Red-crowned Parakeets may be seen in the surrounding bushes. 4. The Wattle Trail from the Visitor Centre to the Ferry Wharf.  A This trail offers good place chances for North Island Kokao. Kokako. In case Stichbird have not yet shown themselves, they can be saen seen by waiting at nectar feeders and water troughs along the Wattle Tail. Just before reaching the wharf, there is a small pond which has Brown Teal and Fernbird, both secretive species. Guided tours are usually available, best booked online together with the ferry ticket.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-14 08:28
Most of the land birds are residents, except for cuckoos which are summer visitors. Most visitors will be bound by the ferry schedule, which allows for 5 hours on the island. Those staying overnight who may look for Little Spotted Kiwi at night. Visitors are asked to keep to the well-marked trails. A popular route is the "Kawerau loop", taking the following trails: 1. The Hobbs Beach Trail to Hobbs Beach. Little Penguins may be seen in their burrows by lifting the lids provided beside the trail. Whitehead and Saddleback may be seen along the path. 2. The Kawerau Trail, which ascends thorugh wet forest from Hobbs Beach to the Ridge Road. Here Stichbird, Bellbird and Tui may be seen. North Island Saddleback are often on the ground, and might be seen by sitting on the benches provided at stream crossings. 3. The Ridge Road (and/or the parallel Cable Trail) to the Lighthouse and Visitor Centre. North Island Robin might be seen along this route. At the Lighthouse, a grassy area holds a few Takahe, while Red-crowned Parakeets may be seen in the surrounding bushes. 4. The Wattle Trail from the Visitor Centre to the Ferry Wharf.  A good place for North Island Kokao. In case Stichbird have not yet shown themselves, they can be saen by waiting at nectar feeders and water troughs along the Wattle Tail. Just before reaching the wharf, there is a small pond which has Brown Teal and Fernbird, both secretive species. Guided tours are usually available, best booked online together with the ferry ticket.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-14 08:15
Most of the land birds are residents, except for cuckoos which are summer visitors. Most visitors will be bound by the ferry schedule, which allows for 5 hours on the island. Those staying overnight who may look for Little Spotted Kiwi at night. Visitors are asked to keep to the well-marked trails. A popular route is the "Kawerau loop", taking the following trails: 1. The Hobbs Beach Trail to Hobbs Beach. Little Penguins may be seen in their burrows by lifting the lids provided beside the trail. Whitehead and Saddleback may be seen along the path.  path. 2. The Kawerau Trail, which ascends thorugh wet forest from Hobbs Beach to the Ridge Road. Here Saddlbeakc, Stichbird, Bellbird and Tui may be seen. seen. North Island Saddleback are often on the ground, and might be seen by sitting on the benches provided at stream crossings. 3. The Ridge Road (and/or the parallel Cable Trail) to the Lighthouse and Visitor Centre. North Island Robin might be seen along this route. At the Lighthouse, a grassy area holds a few Takahe, while Red-crowned Parakeets may be seen in the surrounding bushes. 4. The Wattle Trail from the Visitor Centre to the Ferry Wharf.  A good place for North Island Kokao. In case Stichbird have not been seen, yet shown themselves, they cna can be saen by waiting at nectar feeders and water troughs along the Wattle Tail. Just before reaching the wharf, there is a small pond which has Brown Teal and Fernbird, both secretive species. Guided tours are usually available, best booked online together with the ferry ticket.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-14 08:04
Most of the land birds are residents, except for cuckoos which are summer visitors. Most visitors will be bound by the ferry schedule, which allows for 5 hours on the island. Those staying overnight who may look for Little Spotted Kiwi at night. Visitors are asked to keep to the well-marked trails. A popular route is the "Kawerau loop", taking the following trails: 1. The Hobbs Beach Trail to Hobbs Beach. Whitehead and Saddleback may be seen along the path.  2. The Kawerau Trail, which ascends thorugh wet forest to the Ridge Road. Here Saddlbeakc, Stichbird, Bellbird and Tui may be seen. 3. The Ridge Road (and/or the parallel Cable Trail) to the Lighthouse and Visitor Centre. North Island Robin might be seen along this route. At the Lighthouse, a grassy area holds a few Takahe, while Red-crowned Parakeets may be seen in the surrounding bushes. 4. The Wattle Trail from the Visitor Centre to the Ferry Wharf.  A good place for North Island Kokao. In case Stichbird have not been seen, they cna be saen by waiting at nectar feeders and water troughs along the Wattle Tail. Just before reaching the wharf, there is a small pond which has Brown Teal and Fernbird, both secretive species. Guided tours are usually available, best booked online together with the ferry ticket.
  • How to get there

As of 2023, there is one ferry per day from Wednesday to Sunday, operated by Explore group. The ferry runs from the Viaduct Harbour in downtown Auckland via Gulf Harbour on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. The journey takes 75 minutes from Auckland or 25 minutes from Gulf Harbour. Boarding at Gulf Harbour has the advantage of free parking and a later start/earlier finish, at the expense of less pelagic birding. The standard fare is NZD95, regardless of embarkation point. Tickets should be booked online at least a day in advance.

The ferry journey passes through the seabird-rich Hauraki Gulf. Fluttering Shearwater are often seen in large numbers, with the possiblity of other tubenoses such as Grey-faced Petrel, Buller's and Flesh-footed Shearwaters. White-fronted Terns and Australasian Gannets can usually be seen from the ferry and/or from the lighthouse area on the island. 

Explain from where and how to get to this site with private and public transport.

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-06-09 05:55
As of 2023, there is one ferry per day from Wednesday to Sunday, operated by Explore group. The ferry runs from the Viaduct Harbour in downtown Auckland via Gulf Harbour on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. The journey takes 75 minutes from Auckland or 25 minutes from Gulf Harbour. Boarding at Gulf Harbour has the advantage of free parking and a later start/earlier finish, at the expense of less pelagic birding. The standard fare is NZD95, regardless of embarkation point. Tickets should be booked online at least a day in advance. The ferry journey provides some pelagic birding, since it passes through the seabird-rich Hauraki Gulf. Fluttering Shearwater are often seen in large numbers, with the possiblity of other tubenoses such as Grey-faced Petrel, Buller's and Flesh-footed Shearwaters. White-fronted Terns and Australasian Gannets can usually be seen from the ferry and/or from the lighthouse area on the island. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-02-20 07:49
As of 2023, there is one ferry per day from Wednesday to Sunday, operated by Explore group. The ferry runs from the Viaduct Harbour in downtown Auckland via Gulf Harbour on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. The journey takes 75 minutes from Auckland or 25 minutes from Gulf Harbour. Boarding at Gulf Harbour has the advantage of free parking and a later start/earlier finish, at the expense of less pelagic birding. The standard fare is NZD95, regardless of embarkation point. Tickets should be booked online at least a day in advance. The ferry journey provides some pelagic birding, since it passes through the seabird-rich Hauraki Gulf. Fluttering Shearwater are often seen in large numbers, with the possiblity of other tubenoses such as Grey-faced Petrel, Buller's and Flesh-footed and Buller's Shearwater.Shearwaters. White-fronted Terns and Australasian Gannets can usually be seen from the ferry and/or from the lighthouse area on the island. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-02-20 07:48
As of 2023, there is one ferry per day from Wednesday to Sunday, operated by Explore group. The ferry runs from the Viaduct Harbour in downtown Auckland via Gulf Harbour on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. The journey takes 75 minutes from Auckland or 25 minutes from Gulf Harbour. Boarding at Gulf Harbour has the advantage of free parking and a later start/earlier finish, at the expense of less pelagic birding. The standard fare is NZD95, regardless of embarkation point. Tickets should be booked online at least a day in advance. The ferry journey provides some pelagic birding, since it passes through the seabird-rich Hauraki Gulf. Fluttering Shearwater are often seen in large numbers, with the possiblity of other tubenoses such as Grey-faced Petrel, Flesh-footed and Buller's Shearwater. White-fronted Terns and Australasian Gannets can usually be seen.seen from the ferry and/or from the lighthouse area on the island. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-11-02 13:16
As of 2023, there is one ferry per day from Wednesday to Sunday, operated by Explore group. The ferry runs from the Viaduct Harbour in downtown Auckland via Gulf Harbour on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. The journey takes 75 minutes from Auckland or 25 minutes from Gulf Harbour. Boarding at Gulf Harbour has the advantage of free parking and a later start/earlier finish, at the expense of less pelagic birding. Tickets should be booked online in advance. The standard fare is NZD95, regardless of embarkation point.   Tickets should be booked online at least a day in advance. The ferry journey provides some pelagic birding, since it passes through the seabird-rich Hauraki Gulf. Fluttering Shearwater are often seen in large numbers, with the possiblity of other tubenoses such as Grey-faced Petrel, Flesh-footed and Buller's Shearwater. White-fronted Terns and Australasian Gannets can usually be seen. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-11-02 13:15
As of 2023, there is one ferry per day from Wednesday to Sunday, operated by Explore group. The ferry runs from the Viaduct Harbour in downtown Auckland via Gulf Harbour.Harbour on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. The journey takes 75 minutes from Auckland or 25 minutes from Gulf Harbour. Boarding at Gulf Harbour has the advantage of free parking and a later start/earlier finish, at the expense of less pelagic birding. Tickets should be booked online in advance. The standard fare is NZD95.NZD95, regardless of embarkation point.  The ferry journey provides some pelagic birding, since it passes through the seabird-rich Hauraki Gulf. Fluttering Shearwater are often seen in large numbers, with the possiblity of other tubenoses such as Grey-faced Petrel, Flesh-footed and Buller's Shearwater. White-fronted Terns and Australasian Gannets can usually be seen. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-16 03:52
As of 2023, there is one ferry per day from Wednesday to Sunday, operated by Explore group. The ferry runs from the Viaduct Harbour in downtown Auckland via Gulf Harbour. The journey takes 75 minutes from Auckland or 25 minutes from Gulf Harbour. Boarding at Gulf Harbour has the advantage of free parking and a later start.start/earlier finish, at the expense of less pelagic birding. Tickets should be booked online in advance. The standard fare is NZD95.  The ferry journey provides some pelagic birding, since it passes through the seabird-rich Hauraki Gulf. Fluttering Shearwater are often seen in large numbers, with the possiblity of other tubenoses such as Grey-faced Petrel, Flesh-footed and Buller's Shearwater. White-fronted Terns and Australasian Gannets can usually be seen. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-14 08:34
As of 2023, there is one ferry per day from Wednesday to Sunday, operated by Explore group. The ferry runs from the Viaduct Harbour in downtown Auckland via Gulf Harbour. From Auckland the The journey takes 75 minutes from Auckland or 25 minutes from Gulf Harbour. Boarding at Gulf Harbour has the advantage of free parking and a later start. Tickets should be booked online in advance. The standard fare is NZD95.  The ferry journey provides some pelagic birding, since it passes through the seabird-rich Hauraki Gulf. Fluttering Shearwater are often seen in large numbers, with the possiblity of other tubenoses such as Grey-faced Petrel, Flesh-footed and Buller's Shearwater. White-fronted Terns and Australasian Gannets can usually be seen. 
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-14 08:27
As of 2023, there is one ferry per day from Wednesday to Sunday, operated by Explore group. The ferry runs from the Viaduct Harbour in downtown Auckland via Gulf Harbour. From Auckland the journey takes 75 minutes from Auckland or 25 minutes from Gulf Harbour. Boarding at Gulf Harbour has the advantage of free parking and a later start. Tickets should be booked online in advance. The standard fare is NZD95.  The ferry journey provides some pelagic birding, since it passes through the seabird-rich Hauraki Gulf. Fluttering Shearwater are often seen in large numbers, with the possiblity of other tubenoses such as Grey-faced Petrel, Flesh-footed and Buller's Shearwater. White-fronted Terns and Australasian Gannets can usually be seen. 

Provide information on how to enter this site, which may include:
• entry points
• entry permits / entry tickets and fees
• opening hours / opening season
• other restrictions

Note that this section should only contain information on how to ACCESS (= enter) a site. Info on how to REACH a site should be added to "How to get there" section.

Not available yet
  • Other attractions

Apart from birds, the island is home to the endemic tuatara lizard and a variety of megabugs such as the weta.

The walks are scenic and enjoyed by casual visitors as well as naturalists.

Add information about other attractions at this site, including
• wildlife (apart from birds)
• sights (natural, cultural, archaeological, etc.)
• activities (e.g. for non-birding companions)

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-16 03:48
Apart from birds, the island is home to the endemic tuatara lizard and a variety of megabugs such as the weta. The walks are scenic and enjoyed by casual visitors as well as naturalists.

The visitor centre near the lighthouse is full of information including displays, books, newsletters, and even a library, complete with theses studying the birdlife and ecology of the island.

The centre provides tea and coffee but no food. A sheltered courtyard is provided for visitors to eat their own lunches.

There is a Bunkhouse nearby where overnight accommodation can be booked.

Restrooms are provided at the visitor centre and near the ferry wharf.

Provide information about what type of facilities are available at
or near this site, including:
• information centers / information points
• catering
• accommodation
• hides and watchtowers
• restrooms / toilets

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-11-06 12:34
The visitor centre near the lighthouse is full of information including displays, books, newsletters, and even a library library, complete with theses studying the birdlife and ecology of the island. The centre provides tea and coffee but no food. A sheltered courtyard is provided for visitors to eat their own lunches. There is a Bunkhouse nearby where overnight accommodation can be booked. Restrooms are provided at the visitor centre and near the ferry wharf.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-06-09 05:56
The visitor centre near the lighthouse is full of information including displays, books, newsletters, and even a library complete with theses studying the birdlife and ecology of the island. The centre provides tea and coffee but no food. A sheltered courtyard is provided for visitors to eat their own lunches. There is a Bunkhouse nearby where overnight accommodation can be booked. Restrooms are provided at the visitor centre and near the ferry wharf.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-16 04:11
The visitor centre is full of information including displays, books, magazines, newsletters, and even a library complete with theses studying the birdlife and ecology of the island. The centre provides tea and coffee but no food. A sheltered courtyard is provided for visitors to eat their own lunches. There is a Bunkhouse nearby where overnight accommodation can be booked. Restrooms are provided at the visitor centre and near the ferry wharf.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-16 03:49
The visitor centre is full of information including displays, books, magazines, and even a library complete with theses studying the birdlife and ecology of the island. The centre provides tea and coffee but no food. A sheltered courtyard is provided for visitors to eat their own lunches. There is a Bunkhouse nearby where overnight accommodation can be booked. Restrooms are provided at the visitor centre and near the ferry wharf.
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-14 08:32
The visitor centre is full of information including displays, books, magazines, and even a library complete with theses studying the birdlife of the island. The centre provides tea and coffee but no food. A sheltered courtyard is provided for visitors to eat their own lunches. There is a Bunkhouse nearby where overnight accommodation can be booked. Restrooms are provided at the visitor centre and near the ferry wharf.

Most of the walks require a "moderate level of fitness" as the guidelines state. The Kawerau loop described above, for example, involves at least an hour's walk with substantial changes in elevation.

To minimise disturbance, visitors are asked to keep to the marked paths and avoid using playback to attract birds. Rangers argue that playback is not necessary in order to see the birds (one can ask them for tips on where to look for particular species).

Are there any security issues or other annoyances at this site? For
instance, these may include:
• offenses like robbery or theft
• natural hazards
• dangerous or annoying animals or plants (mosquitoes, leaches, thorn bushes, etc.)
• noise pollution

Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2024-11-06 12:36
Most of the walks require a "moderate level of fitness" as the guidelines state. The Kawerau loop described above, for example, involves at least an hour's walk with substantial changes in elevation. To minimise disturbance, visitors are asked to keep to the marked paths and avoid using playback.playback to attract birds. Rangers argue that playback is not necessary in order to see the birds (one can ask them for tips on where to look for particular species).
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-10-14 12:59
Most of the walks require a "moderate level of fitness" as the guidelines state. The Kawerau loop described above, for example, involves at least an bour's hour's walk with substantial changes in elevation. To minimise disturbance, visitors are asked to keep to the marked paths and avoid using playback. Rangers argue that playback is not necessary in order to see the birds (one can ask them for tips on where to look for particular species).
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-10-14 12:59
Most of the walks require a "moderate level of fitness" as the guidelines state. The Kawerau loop described above, for example, involves a walk of at least 7km an bour's walk with substantial changes in elevation. To minimise disturbance, visitors are asked to keep to the marked paths and avoid using playback. Rangers argue that playback is not necessary in order to see the birds (one can ask them for tips on where to look for particular species).
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-10-14 12:47
Most of the walks require a "moderate level of fitness" as the guidelines state. The Kawerau loop described above, for example, involves a walk of at least 7km with substantial changes in elevation. To minimise disturbance, visitors are asked to keep to the marked paths and avoid using playback. Rangers argue that this playback is not necessary in order to see the birds (one can ask them for tips on where to look for particular species).
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-17 05:08
Most of the walks require a "moderate level of fitness" as the guidelines state. The Kawerau loop described above, for example, involves a walk of at least 7km with substantial changes in elevation. To mimise minimise disturbance, visitors are asked to keep to the marked paths and avoid using playback. Rangers argue that this is not necessary in order to see the birds (one can ask them for tips on where to look for particular species).
Edited by Stephen Matthews on 2023-07-17 05:06
Most of the walks require a "moderate level of fitness" as the guidelines state. The Kawerau loop described above, for example, involves a walk of at least 7km with substantial changes in elevation. To mimise disturbance, visitors are asked to keep to the marked paths and avoid using playback. Rangers argue that this is not necessary in order to see the birds (one can ask them for tips on where to look for particular species).
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